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| HKT48’s Jitoe Nene to Graduate This Winter After Nearly 9 Years, Continues as Single Centre Until Farewell |
HKT48’s Jitoe Nene has officially announced she’ll be graduating from the group, sending a wave of emotions through the fandom.
The 24-year-old, known fondly as Nenechan, dropped the news during today’s (6 July) theatre performance, with HKT48 later confirming it on their official site.
Nene, who hails from Miyazaki and first joined HKT48 as a 4th-gen member back in July 2016, is set to bring her idol journey to a close this winter.
While her final stage date isn’t pinned down just yet, the group promised fans that further details will follow once things are locked in.
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“We have had many discussions with Jitoe Nene about her timing and wish to respect her decision,” the group shared in their official statement. “We deeply apologise to fans for this sudden announcement.”
Nenechan isn’t bowing out quietly though — she will continue to shine as the centre of HKT48’s upcoming 19th single Hansode Tenshi (out 23 July), a first-time centre role that fans have been buzzing about.
It seems she’s determined to go out on a high note, showing gratitude to everyone who’s supported her all these years.
“To all the fans who have always supported HKT48 so warmly, and to everyone who has stood by me, I am truly grateful,” Nene commented. “Please keep cheering for me until the very end.”
2025年7月6日
— だいくん (@1209daisukeando) July 6, 2025
チームKⅣ「ここにだって天使はいる」公演
地頭江音々ちゃん卒業発表#地頭江音々 #HKT48 #ここにだって天使はいる公演 pic.twitter.com/19fZ5t8vQB
Standing at 158cm and known for her kind-hearted personality, Jitoe Nene has spent almost nine years lighting up the stage, growing from trainee to a full-fledged Team KIV member at the group’s 6th anniversary show in 2017.
Though she never ranked highly in the AKB48 group’s massive annual Senbatsu elections (placing 117th at her best), she carved out a loyal following thanks to her steady presence and gentle charm.
For now, fans can look forward to a last chapter full of memories, with Nene at centre position before she hangs up her idol mic this winter. Stay tuned — her official graduation date will be announced soon, and you can bet there’ll be an emotional send-off worthy of her eight years, eleven months, and 24 days of dedication to HKT48.